For more photos: Having a bang-up Fourth of July

With our country’s birthday just days away, now’s the time to stock up on poppers, sparklers and screaming Piccolo Petes before the shelves are empty.
Determined to get the best bang for his buck, Loomis resident Rex Hime got an early start to his fireworks shopping by hitting a Rocklin TNT booth just hours after it opened Sunday morning, the first official day of fireworks sales.
“We’ll hit multiple booths from now until the fourth,” said his wife, Gwyn. “We’ve done our research and he (Rex) always wants to make sure he’s got the best.”
The Loomis family said they spend approximately $700 on fireworks each year creating a spectacle with their selection of fireworks with both bright colors and sound.
“There are a few we get every year because they’re classics,” said Rex who admits being a fan of the noisy, lengthy fountain fireworks.
The American Spirit firework regularly tops the Hime family list for its crackling noises, sparkly fountains and bright colors.
“It’s one that generates a lot of oohs and ahs,” Rex said.
The Leaping Lizard and Flashdance fireworks round out their must haves each year.
“I like to get several of the bigger ones and lead up to a big grand finale,” Rex said.
After visiting TNT, the Himes stopped at a nearby Phantom booth to stock up on more of the top-reviewed fireworks. Several more trips and purchases throughout the week were expected as more fireworks become available before the July 4 celebration.
Justin Tomscak, fireworks booth coordinator for Rock Harbor Church in Rocklin, was on hand offering suggestions on the latest and greatest. This year’s proceeds will go to youth and family programs offered including youth group summer camps, retreats and scholarships.
“The Fountain, the Rocketman and Mad Max are this year’s top choices for grand finales,” Tomscak said.
The Fountain promises to deliver a good show phasing through bright colors and fountains of sparklers that shoot several feet.
“(The Fountain) is a knock ‘em dead display that’s a big crowd pleaser,” Tomscak said.
Tomscak said business was slow Sunday afternoon, but the Rock Harbor volunteers warn that sales typically pick up later in the week with the crowd-pleaser fireworks being the first to go.
“Mad Max and The Fountain will sell out,” Tomscak said. “So will the bigger grand finales.”
Volunteer couple Sharon and Greg Krieger hail from a neighborhood that has developed a tradition of elaborate fireworks displays.
“Last year we had more than 150 people on our block. It was standing room only,” Greg Krieger said. “For two hours we had fireworks going non-stop.”
For the fireworks die-hard or major neighborhood blowouts, the Big Bang has enough fireworks to keep the sparks flying all night.
But timing is everything as most booths only receive one of this special item.
At $600, the Big Bang is an assorted boxed set that features nearly every TNT offering as well as discontinued fireworks.
“There are the fountains, sparklers, noise makers and then ones you can’t buy anymore like the Spirit of 76 which is a classic,” Tomscak said. “And then there’s one of every grand finale we sell. This will keep you busy.”

Firework safety
• Buy only State Fire Marshal-approved (Safe and Sane) fireworks. • They must have the State
Fire Marshal’s seal on them and can only be purchased at licensed fireworks stands.
• Always read directions.
• Always have an adult present.
• Use fireworks outdoors only.
• Never use near dry grass or other flammable materials.
• Light one at a time.
• Use common sense and keep a safe distance.
• Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
• Never experiment with fireworks.
• Have a bucket of water and a hose handy.
• Never attempt to re-light or “fix” fireworks.
• Do not wear loose fitting clothing.
• Never carry fireworks in your pockets.
• Fireworks are not toys.
• Parents are liable for any damage or injuries caused by their children using fireworks.
~ Firework safety information from Rocklin Fire Chief Bill Mikesell